New York Dearest
The guide, $35

See and do · Landmarks and history · 2026

My favorite New York buildings.

In my order, from my own visits, updated September 2026. 19 places.

From the soaring heights of skyscrapers to the historic walls of century-old landmarks, we’re going to cover the most famous buildings in New York City.

Collectively, these buildings make up NYC’s famous skyline, which stands as a testament to human ingenuity and creativity. How many famous NYC buildings can you name? Let’s make that 20.

Antonina PattizI went to every one · how I decide
  1. Grand Central TerminalLandmark · MidtownStepping into Grand Central Terminal feels like stepping into a European train station.
  2. 30 Rockefeller PlazaLandmark · MidtownHome to one of the most famous observation decks in New York City, 30 Rockefeller Plaza (affectionately known as ’30 Rock’) is an famous 70-story building that reaches a height of 850 feet.
  3. The New York Stock ExchangeLandmark · Financial DistrictStanding as a symbol for capitalism (the principle our country was built upon), the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is one of the most important buildings in New York City.
  4. The Chrysler BuildingLandmark · MidtownI’ve been here in every season.
  5. Trinity ChurchLandmark · Financial DistrictTrinity Church was originally built in 1698 but was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1776.
  6. One World Trade CenterLandmark · Financial DistrictThe One World Trade Center (also known as the “Freedom Tower”), soars to a symbolic height of 1,776 feet (the year America declared its independence).
  7. The Empire State BuildingLandmark · MidtownReaching dizzying heights of 1,454 feet, the Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world for 40 years (from 1931–1971).
  8. The New York Public LibraryLandmark · MidtownI’m a firm believer that everyone needs to see the New York Public Library at least once in their life.
  9. Saint Patrick’s CathedralLandmark · MidtownBlending the beauty of architectural with religious significance, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in NYC.
  10. The Plaza HotelHotel · MidtownOpened in 1907, The Plaza is the epitome of luxury and prestige.
  11. Manhattan Municipal BuildingLandmark · Financial DistrictIt’s impossible to visit NYC without noticing this impressive towering structure, especially if you plan to cross the Brooklyn Bridge at one point during your visit (which you absolutely must do).
  12. New York Life BuildingLandmark · MidtownReaching heights of 615 feet, the New York Life Building is a striking sight to behold, especially from afar, where it becomes clear that the epic NYC skyline wouldn’t be the same without it.
  13. General Grant’s TombLandmark · Upper West SideGrant’s Tomb is undoubtedly one of the most famous buildings in New York City due to its significance, especially with history buffs.
  14. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET)Museum · Upper East SideFounded in 1870, The Met’s famous Beaux-Arts façade lays home to one of the most impressive museums in the world.
  15. Ellis Island National Immigration MuseumMuseum · Jersey CityThe Ellis Island National Immigration Museum was opened to the public in 1990 and is worth visiting for any history buff.
  16. The Woolworth BuildingLandmark · Financial DistrictSoaring an impressive 792 feet, the Woolworth Building’s claim to fame is that it was the tallest building in the world from 1913 to 1930.
  17. Solomon R. Guggenheim MuseumMuseum · Upper East SideLove it or hate it, there’s no denying that this epic structure is one of the most famous buildings in New York City.
  18. The Flatiron BuildingLandmark · Flatiron DistrictLet’s get real. the Flatiron Building needs no introduction.
  19. Madison Square GardenLandmark · MidtownThis world-famous arena, with a seating capacity of over 20,000, is the oldest major sporting facility in the New York.

Antonina’s favorite New York buildings, 2026

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The places on this list can show it. It links back here, so a reader sees the whole list and how it was made. No fee.

The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 21 Iconic New York City Buildings (You Should Know).